SIMPLY AMAZING: Coda Technologies 07x Preamplifier


I have in-house Coda Technologies 07x preamplifier, which is the latest iteration of their '0' series linestages.  Very briefly, over the last seven years I have had over five solid state preamplifiers, price range was between 4K to 20K, in for auditioning in my system.  They were quite good, but lacked what my tube based linestages had to offer.  The solid state pieces were wickedly transparent, micro-detailed, tight accurate bass extension, and had great overall dynamics.  However, they lacked the organic timbres/tonality, 3D imaging, and the ability to create a sense of space between the players that my tube based preamplifiers produced in my system. 

So, I was concerned that based on my personal preferences that the Coda 07x might not be my "sonic cup of tea".  Boy was I wrong!  Besides, the superlative build quality, starting with the double-sided gold-plated circuit boards, and the sane prices Coda charges compared to other much more insanely priced gear, the 07x is priced at $6'500, this preamplifier has patiently shocked me regarding it might be the best synthesis between what solid state offers (transparency-clarity/low frequency extension-control/micro-details/speed-dynamics) and the best of what tubes have to offer (pristine timbres-tonality-color/holographic imaging/three-dimensional sound-staging with a sense of air around the individual instruments).

Coda always, at least in the America "flies under the radar" compared to other US manufacturers, but based on performance, build quality, and  smart evolved engineering they offer cutting edge equipment at reasonable prices that deserve to be heard by more music lovers. I'll get into all the little details in my review on the performance of the 07x, but for right now if you are thinking about purchasing a solid state linestage, consider giving Doug Dale a call to hear this very special piece.
teajay

lancelock  - i've heard that even w/the $1300 cap/x-former/gain (level-2) upgrade, the 07x still betters it.

doug s.
I currently use a Lindemann Musicbook DSD streamer as a pre. Great DAC and CD player and it replaced a dedicated preamp. But having a Rega P10 mated to a Rogue Audio Area magnum while using the streamer as a preamp, you know my system is bastardized. Amazing clarity but a rather flat 2D stage and seems to lack the goodness of tubes.

I'm also interested in the Coda 07X but have had my eye on the Micro ZOTL as well. And well the C900u.

I may add GaN based amps at some point in my system. I'm using Nord class D, an AS1200 class D and a BMC S1(currently broken) for amplification.


The 07X is still my main preamp. I have considered replacing it but have yet to do so. The main gripe I have about the unit is it’s incompatibility with the Logitech Harmony remote control. Outside of that, I could see ownership of this unit lasting decades.